After studying this chapter, you will be able to do the following:

1. Define the key terms of political values, goals, and political actors.
2. Explain the importance of cooperation, accommodation, and conflict resolution in understanding politics.
3. Explain the role of political culture in politics.
4. Examine the main features of constitutional government.
5. Identify the main features of national interests.
6. Examine the values of political elites and average citizens and the role each plays in politics